The Best Time for Grub Control in Missouri
Lawn pests can be a real headache for homeowners, and among them, lawn grubs are some of the sneakiest troublemakers. These tiny larvae, often unnoticed beneath the soil surface, can wreak havoc on your beautiful lawn. For the best insect control on your lawn, we’re answering common questions homeowners face, like what lawn grubs are, when to apply grub control in Missouri, and how to keep your turfgrass thriving.
What are Lawn Grubs?
Lawn grubs are the larval stage of beetles, such as the June beetle or masked chafer, and Japanese beetle. These C-shaped creatures have thick, white bodies and brown heads. They are commonly known as white grubs and can cause significant damage to your lawn. Grubs feed on the root systems of your grass resulting in patches of dead grass. As they grow into adult beetles, they begin mating and lay eggs to complete and repeat their life cycle.
When to Apply Grub Control on Your Missouri Lawn
Timing is crucial when it comes to grub control in Missouri. Applying preventative insecticides or curative treatments at the right moment can save your lawn from the devastation caused by these pests. In Missouri, the best time to start thinking about curative grub control is in late summer, around late July to early August. This period aligns with the hatching of beetle larvae and the emergence of young grubs, making it the ideal time window for action. When grubs are small, and closest to the soil surface, grub control products will be more effective. Grubs that were nesting deep in the soil over winter may begin feeding in early summer, around April or May, but they will be mature grubs making them difficult to control.
When to Apply Preventative Grub Control
Preventative grub control is like a shield for your lawn but grub damage can be hard to predict. If you’ve had a repetitive grub problem in areas of the lawn, prevention can be helpful. Applying grub prevention in early summer, around June, is the best time to create a barrier that stops grub larvae from hatching and developing. Grub control products containing imidacloprid last longer in the soil and are effective in preventing infestations.
Common Signs of Grub Damage in Your Lawn
Detecting grub damage early is crucial for effective control. Keep an eye out for dead patches or areas that easily pull up like loose carpet. A simple “tug test” will show those surefire signs of a grub problem. Another common sign of a grub infestation is an increased presence of unwanted visitors like raccoons and skunks, who enjoy feasting on grub larvae.
Lawn Care Tips to Combat Grubs:
- Regular mowing, fertilization, and watering will help promote strong root systems, quick recovery, and an overall healthy lawn.
- Avoid overwatering during summer because grubs prefer moist soil.
- Seeding in early fall may be necessary to repair cool-season grasses that have dealt with an infestation.
Professional Grub Control and Lawn Pest Control in St. Louis
Don’t let lawn grubs ruin the beauty of your Missouri lawn. By understanding their life cycle, recognizing signs of damage, and applying preventative grub control at the right time, you can enjoy a lush and healthy turfgrass. Consider professional help from the team at Loyalty Lawn Care in St. Louis. We offer comprehensive lawn care services, lawn pest control treatments, mosquito control, and more. Our services are built to ensure your Missouri lawn remains a healthy outdoor space year-round. We also offer tree and shrub care, lawn aeration, and fescue seeding in early fall. Since 1998, we’ve provided lawn care in St. Louis, St. Charles, St. Peters, Ballwin, Chesterfield, Kirkwood, Lake St. Louis, Dardenne Prairie, O’Fallon, Wentzville, Wildwood, and surrounding areas. Contact us today for a free quote!